How to Tell When It’s Time to Get a New Roof

Roofs are an important element to the home. They protect against debris from getting into the home, they also serve to keep out pests. The roof also has to be pleasing aesthetically to give a good impression to the neighbors, increase property value and make it easier to sell a home when it’s time. Many woe the day they need to get a new roof. Honestly, it isn’t as expensive as people think. Most homes can have a new roof furnished for under $8,000. That’s pretty cheap considering the value of the home and the benefits of having a strong, good looking roof. There are certain signs you should watch out for before getting one. Here are a few things to consider before that roof is purchased.

Do Your Shingles Look Like They’re About To Fall Out?

If one shingle is curled or displaced it may not be necessary to replace the whole roof. A qualified roofer can usually correct this problem; however, sometimes the damage done to a roof is too extensive. This makes it not worth the cost of having it repaired. If multiple shingles are edged or curled, let’s say about 50%, it’s time to have that roof replaced. Part of what holds shingles onto the roof is a good foundation. There may be something wrong with the foundation of the roof if this occurrence is pronounced. This not only affects the roof cosmetically, it also puts the house at risk for vermin and other unwanted animals coming in. These critters can dig through a broken roof a lot more easily.

Cracked Shingles?

Do you have multiple cracked shingles? Sometimes this happens because of weathering. A common cause is a hail storm, tropical storm or hurricane. Sometimes a big blizzard can do it because the snow puts pressure on the roof. If this damage is extensive, it may be worth replacing the whole roof instead of having each cracked shingle repaired. This affects the property value to no end. It can put at least $10,000 off of the value of your home. This makes it worth it to replace.

Does Your Roof Have Dark Streaks?

Dark streaks are never a good sign. They usually mean mold and algae. This cannot be repaired by a roofer without a roof replacement. It’s important to have this problem taken care of as fast as possible. You do not want the mold to spread to other parts of the house. This can create a toxic environment. Black mold is very dangerous. Not only does it decrease your property value, it puts the health of you, your children and your pets at risk.

Is There Extensive Moss?

Your roof is exposed. It’s not protected by anything after the layer of the shingles. This means it’s subject to the natural ecosystem of nature. Ever notice how moss often grows on trees? Most roofs are made out of wood. This means they can accumulate moss as well. When this happens, it’s important to have the roof replaced instead of hiring a roofer to try and fix it. The moss may be so extensive that this will not be possible. A roofer will treat the problem to the best or their ability, but it’s very likely the whole roof will have to be replaced. Moss can create an unhealthy element to your home if it spreads beyond your roof. Bacteria tends to love vegetation. This can lead to a home that’ll make you sick.

How Soon Should You Replace?

You should have that roof replaced as soon as possible if it’s beyond what a simple, roofer can cure. A bad roof, one that has to be replaced, can cause serious damage to you and your family. Remember the importance of your health, property value and the appearance of your home. Whether you’re doing this willingly, or the homeowners’ association is on your case, get it done quickly. You may not be able to do it right away because of money concerns; however, as soon as you can afford it, it should be the first thing on your list. Keep all these concerns in mind when you’re thinking about getting a new roof.